I finished the Wingsy D3A2 Val this weekend. This model is the first 1/48 scale injection molded kit of the Val, and the wait was well worth it. The model is very high quality, thanks to friend Harvey Low for letting me know about some points to look out for. In essence, dry fitting is your friend, and know that the sides of the cockpit tub need to be sanded down quite a bit to allow a perfect fit into the fuselage.
I also used the ITA3 detail sets for the engine and cowl, as well as the underwing 60kg bombs and their pylons. The quality is exquisite, and adds quite a bit to both the end product, as well as not needing to mess with the multi-part engine and cowl assemblies as presented by Wingsy.
Also note that the kit supplied markings for the aircraft from Junyo are not correct. The tail code is for an aircraft from IJN Hiyo, the two fuselage stripes for IJN Junyo. My solution was to simply use one fuselage stripe to denote IJN Hiyo, to match the tail code.
Tamiya acrylics were used for the paint, weathered lightly with oils and AK pencils. I wanted to present a well maintained aircraft normally based on a carrier, but had been recently relocated to Buin island for Operation I-GO in 1943.
I also used Quinta 3D printed seat belts, their 3D printed rear machine gun, and Clear Prop canopy masks.
I will also be building the brand new Fine Molds Model 21 Zero in the near future, and it will be finished as a fighter based from the same carrier air wing. Stay tuned.
- Dan Salamone -
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